Ways to Save Money in Your Home This Winter
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There are plenty of easy ways to save money in the home, such as remembering to switch the TV off at the mains. On average, a UK household will spend £35 per year on appliances that are left on standby, or which run without frequent interruption, such as a digital clock. Although appliances manufactured since 2010 cannot have a standby power greater than 1W, homeowners should always try to turn off appliances at the socket when not in use. If considering buying a new appliance in the winter sales, look for the most efficient energy rating (ideally A+) for the size of product required.
Using energy-efficient bulbs and turning off lights when moving into another room helps keep electric bills down, as well as reduce CO2 emissions. Smaller households may consider switching to a water meter, as not only does a meter charge only for what has been used, it also encourages careful water use in the home.
Consider buying products such as soap powder and toilet rolls in bulk, as these usually costs less than purchasing the same items in smaller quantities. Always check dates on perishable foods and eat them in time, rather than throw them away. Try to use up older vegetables in curries, chillies or soups and if cooking these (or similar dishes such as casseroles), cook in bulk and then freeze the additional portions. Not only does this reduce energy consumption, but it also saves cooking time.
Having an energy-efficient boiler with a programmable thermostat facilitates efficient heating regulation within the home. Placing thermostatic radiator valves (TRVs) on each radiator is an inexpensive way of allowing temperature control in individual rooms. Turning down the temperature on a thermostat by one degree can save as much as £55 per year.
Unfortunately, heat can be lost through windows. Replacing single-glazed windows with double glazing can save as much as £165 per year. Energy-efficient double glazing also helps to reduce the condensation that builds up on the inside of windows.
Specialists such as Coral Windows offer the most efficient type of glass for double glazing, which is Low-E (low emissivity), meaning that it reduces the amount of heat that can pass through the glass without affecting light quality.
Loft insulation lasts for around 40 years and with estimated savings of around £175 on annual bills (based on 270mm mineral wool insulation), it does result in savings being made. Many homeowners are also eligible for discounts on loft insulation from energy companies or even energy trusts.
Cavity wall insulation is usually suitable for properties built post-1920 and this can help save the home up to £135 per year. This means that it would have paid for itself within three years of fitting.
Other solutions include solid wall insulation, floor insulation and draught proofing. By reducing draughts in the home, such as through keyholes and loft hatches, or even by replacing draughty window frames, it is possible to save around £55 in heating costs per year.
With more households than ever feeling the squeeze of rising bills, making a list of two or three simple tips for the family to do, such as switching off the lights and the TV can help to save on winter bills. Improving home insulation, fitting an energy-efficient boiler or even replacing windows with energy-efficient double glazing are just some of the other ways that will help to save money and CO2 emissions in the home.
Category: Home Repair
